modality

noun

mo·​dal·​i·​ty mō-ˈda-lə-tē 

plural modalities

1

a

: the quality or state of being modal

b

: a modal quality or attribute : form

2

: the classification of logical propositions (see proposition sense 1) according to their asserting or denying the possibility, impossibility, contingency, or necessity of their content

3

: one of the main avenues of sensation (such as vision)

4

: a usually physical therapeutic agency

Examples of modality in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The brands that navigate this well articulate a flexible identity anchored in mission, not modality. —Joann Yamani, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025

Over more than two decades, my colleagues and I developed a treatment modality using radiofrequency electromagnetic fields to specifically target tumor cells without affecting normal cells. —Alexis Kayser, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 May 2025

Those seeking compassionate guidance can work with her team of psychologists, all trained in the Inner Message Approach® and other effective modalities. —Lauren Carpenter, USA Today, 14 Apr. 2025

If there are alternative imaging modalities that can answer the clinical question without radiation those options should be explored. —Omer Awan, Forbes.com, 19 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1545, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for modality

• banality
• bestiality
• brutality
• carnality
• centrality
• chirality
• duality
• fatality
• finality
• formality
• frugality
• legality

Medical Definition

modality

noun

mo·​dal·​i·​ty mō-ˈdal-ət-ē 

plural modalities

1

: one of the main avenues of sensation (as vision)

2

a

: a usually physical therapeutic agency

b

: an apparatus for applying a modality